Traveling between Russia and Finland has historically been convenient due to their close proximity and strong transport connections. However, given the geopolitical developments and changing travel restrictions, particularly in light of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the rules governing Russian citizens’ entry into Finland have evolved. This guide provides a detailed explanation of the current situation regarding Russian citizens traveling to Finland, including visa requirements, restrictions, and alternative options.
1. Historical Travel Between Russia and Finland
Before the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, travel between Russia and Finland was relatively straightforward. The two countries shared a long land border and frequent transport links, including direct trains, buses, and flights. Finnish cities such as Helsinki, Lappeenranta, and Imatra were popular destinations for Russian tourists, especially those from Saint Petersburg and the surrounding areas.
Finns also visited Russia for shopping trips, sightseeing, and cultural exchanges. Many Russians traveled to Finland for tourism, business, education, and leisure activities like skiing or visiting the famous Finnish saunas.
However, this travel landscape has changed dramatically due to both the pandemic and the geopolitical situation.
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You can also get a comprehensive guide on how to travel to Finland for free here
2. Current Restrictions on Russian Travel to Finland
Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, European Union (EU) member states, including Finland, have imposed various sanctions and restrictions on Russia. These sanctions have impacted the ability of Russian citizens to travel freely to Finland.
EU-Wide Travel Ban on Russians
Finland, as a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, has implemented travel restrictions in line with EU sanctions. As of now, most Russian citizens are restricted from traveling to Finland for non-essential purposes like tourism, shopping, or leisure.
Exceptions to the Travel Ban
There are, however, exceptions for certain categories of travelers, including:
- Diplomats and government officials on official duties.
- Russian citizens with family members in Finland (spouses, children, parents).
- Humanitarian reasons, such as urgent medical treatment.
- Russian citizens holding long-term residence permits in Finland or another Schengen country.
- Students or individuals attending educational programs in Finland.
- Russian citizens with work permits in Finland.
It is important to check with Finnish authorities before planning any travel, as rules may change based on political developments and security concerns.
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3. Visa Requirements for Russian Citizens Traveling to Finland
Even if you are eligible to travel to Finland under one of the exceptions listed above, you will still need to follow standard visa procedures unless you have a long-term residency permit for a Schengen country.
Schengen Visa
Finland is part of the Schengen Area, so Russian citizens will need a Schengen visa for short-term visits. This visa allows travel to Finland and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Schengen Visa Application Process
To apply for a Schengen visa as a Russian citizen, you must:
- Complete the visa application form online or at the Finnish consulate or visa center.
- Provide a valid passport with at least two blank pages and valid for three months beyond the intended stay.
- Submit passport-sized photos that meet the Schengen guidelines.
- Show proof of financial means, such as bank statements, showing you can cover your stay.
- Submit proof of travel insurance with at least €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies, accidents, or repatriation.
- Present a travel itinerary, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, or an invitation letter from a host in Finland.
- Pay the visa fee, which is usually around €80 for adults.
Processing times can vary, so it is recommended to apply several weeks before your planned travel date.
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You can also get a comprehensive guide on how to travel to Finland for free here
4. Current Entry and Exit Procedures for Russians
Travel routes between Russia and Finland have changed due to sanctions, border closures, and airline restrictions. Below are some key points on current entry and exit procedures:
Air Travel
- Direct flights between Russia and Finland were largely suspended as a result of airspace restrictions imposed by the EU. Russian airlines have been banned from entering European airspace, so direct flights between Russia and Finland are no longer available.
- If you are a Russian citizen eligible to travel to Finland, you may need to transit through a third country like Turkey, Serbia, or the United Arab Emirates to reach Finland.
Train Travel
- The Allegro train service between Saint Petersburg and Helsinki, a popular and convenient mode of transport, has been suspended indefinitely since 2022. There are no direct train routes currently operating between Russia and Finland.
Land Borders
- The land border crossings between Russia and Finland are still operational for specific categories of travelers. However, Finnish border control officers are strictly enforcing the entry rules. Be prepared to present all necessary documents, including proof of visa, residency, or family ties, depending on your case.
5. Alternatives for Russian Travelers
Although direct travel to Finland is restricted for most Russian citizens, there are some alternative options to consider if Finland is your destination.
Travel via a Third Country
Russian travelers can transit through non-EU countries that have not imposed airspace bans on Russian airlines. For instance:
- Turkey, Serbia, Armenia, and the United Arab Emirates continue to maintain direct flights to and from Russia. From these countries, Russian citizens may be able to fly to Finland or another Schengen country.
Travel by Land via Neighboring Countries
Although Finland has restricted travel, some Baltic countries (Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania) have slightly less stringent rules for Russian travelers. From there, it may be possible to travel overland or by ferry to Finland, but visa requirements and border checks still apply.
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You can also get a comprehensive guide on how to travel to Finland for free here
6. Long-Term Visa and Residency Options
If you are planning to stay in Finland for an extended period for work, education, or family reunification, you may be eligible for a long-term visa or residence permit. These types of permits are granted for purposes such as:
- Employment: If you have a job offer from a Finnish company.
- Studies: For students enrolled in universities or academic programs in Finland.
- Family reunification: For spouses, children, or parents of Finnish residents or citizens.
Applying for these permits requires additional documentation and approval from Finnish immigration authorities. Once granted, these permits allow you to live and work in Finland for longer durations.
7. Impact of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
It’s important to understand that the current restrictions on Russian citizens traveling to Finland are directly related to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. As the geopolitical situation evolves, so do the rules regarding travel. The Finnish government continues to follow the EU’s lead in imposing and enforcing sanctions against Russia, and these rules could remain in place for an extended period.
Future Changes
Given the fluidity of the situation, it’s crucial to keep up with the latest news and official statements from both Finnish and EU authorities. Be sure to monitor updates on travel advisories, visa regulations, and potential future changes in the relationship between Russia and Finland.
Travel for Russian citizens to Finland is currently limited due to both EU sanctions and safety concerns stemming from the Russia-Ukraine conflict. While non-essential travel, such as tourism, is largely prohibited, there are exceptions for certain categories of travelers, including diplomats, family members, and those with residency or work permits. Russian citizens who are eligible to travel to Finland must still follow the standard Schengen visa process and ensure all required documents are in order.
Given the changing political landscape, it’s essential to stay updated on the latest travel restrictions and entry requirements by consulting official sources like the Finnish Embassy and the European Union’s travel advisories. With proper planning and documentation, those eligible to travel can still access Finland for legitimate reasons, but leisure and tourist travel remain restricted for the foreseeable future.
For more information, you can speak to Happy Face
You can also get a comprehensive guide on how to travel to Finland for free here
Disclaimer
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